Why choose a maths career?

It is no secret that maths is not loved by all. Some are born with good maths sense and are intrigued by the challenge it provides, while others flee from it. But one thing is for sure, with an extensive background in mathematics, there is an unlimited number of lucrative career opportunities available to you.

According to a report on The Best Jobs in 2013 by careerscast.com, high pay, low stress, a robust hiring outlook, a healthy work environment and minimal physical exertion combine to define what makes a great job for most people. Professions including actuarial science, biomedical engineering, software engineering, audiology and financial planning all fit the bill and help the professionals who hold those jobs attain the ultimate career goal: personal fulfillment.

The fact remains that the top highest-earning college degrees have a common element: mathematics.

Though many would still prefer not to major in mathematics, having ample knowledge of maths will be very beneficial to your career development as both English and mathematics are prerequisites to any job that you will encounter. A solid background in mathematics will also prove to be beneficial for a lifetime, helping to train your mind to be good at problem-solving and building analytical skills, and teaching patience and discipline. Mathematics has the ability to give you an edge in a job in an already dynamic and competitive market.

While most careers require some level of maths knowledge, the following are more likely to require a degree in mathematics:

1. Hydrologist. As more natural disasters occur, more hydrologists are in demand. They apply scientific knowledge and mathematical principles to solve problems such as quantity, quality, and availability of water. They may be concerned with finding water supplies for cities or farms, or controlling river flooding or soil erosion.

2. Pharmacist. This may be the maths career with the highest employment rate. With this career, you are required to have knowledge in maths, science, chemistry and biology. Pharmacists determine the appropriate amount and duration of the medication for the patient. They are also aware of the medical side effects that may occur with each medication.

3. Computational biologist. They use mathematical equations to address biological problems. For this career, you will have to be well versed in mathematics, computer science, applied mathematics, biology and statistics.

4. Architect. Architects' work  entails drawing designs for various projects. They lay plans and provide the groundwork for any construction project. You will have to be good at mathematics and attain an architecture degree.

5. Surveyor. Surveyors help assess boundaries whether in an individual's yard or a business property. This career consists in the measuring of roads, fields and lots.

6. Astronaut. It takes a lot of maths knowledge to be able to travel to space and back. Astronauts need to be able to apply their considerable knowledge and skills to the tasks for which they have been trained.

7. Economist. This mathematical career is designed around research, as economists practice a lot of statistics and projections. Most jobs require a master's or PhD degree in economics and that individuals be familiar with computer science.

8. Accountant. This involves measuring, disclosing assurances about financial information, assisting investors and analysing finances.

9. Cryptanalyst. Cryptanalysts use the latest technology and education to detect schemes used to transmit secret information. They can either create or destroy these encrypted codes. Subjects required for this field include college algebra, trigonometry, all types of calculus, linear algebra, introduction to real analysis, and mathematical cryptography.

10. Engineer. There are different types of engineers - mechanical, aerospace, chemical, civil and electrical. Engineers are often referred to as 'the architects of the modern world'.

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that there are many popular and exciting careers that use mathematics as well?

11. Marketer. Whatever career path you choose in the marketing world, you will need math. Whether its report writing or calculating a budget or calculating potential market share.

12. Entrepreneur. In order to calculate the best selling price for a product or service, you will definitely be needing mathematics.

13. Athlete. Athletes need math. A volleyball player needs to know what angle to hit the ball to make it go over the net, a cricketer needs to know how much more is needed to have a safe score and the list goes on.

14. Artist. Some artists use math to calculate the amount of supplies and money they need to put into a certain project. Other artists use maths when drawing blueprints for buildings or statues.

15. Chef. Every great chef needs to have an understanding of mathematics so that they can measure and add the right ingredients to each dish.